Workers' Comp

With specialized task simulation tools, occupational rehab clinics can recreate realistic work environments, making the transition back to the job smoother. This involves accurately matching the weight and handle of objects, meeting endurance and repetition requirements, and simulating lifting heights.

OTs, PTs, and other rehabilitation professionals use CPT 97530 for "dynamic activities to improve functional performance." With this definition, you may think any treatment qualifies as Therapeutic Activities. But payers are looking for something more specific in your documentation for reimbursement.

Non-combat MSKIs account for greater than 80% of military injuries. How can we better serve this population? The FCE-M is the first assessment that specifically addresses the military's many job demands.

As an orthopedic PT, I frequently work with traumatic amputations. During assessment, I consider both the physical and mental / emotional impact of the patient's condition. Treatment addresses strength, flexibility, function, and emotional care.

Clinic owners who establish themselves as local leaders in workers' comp programs can gain increased marketability, consumer trust, and consistent referrals from local businesses. Here's a look at two different types of workers' comp referrals.

When working workers’ comp cases, we generally think of the intake interview as the first major step. But an effective intake interview takes preparation before you ever see the client. Performing a well-planned injured worker intake interview is key to getting the employee back to work safely and quickly.

If your evaluation meets these requirements, there are a few more ways to make sure you’re performing the most effective FCE and that your client gets the most accurate results. First, make sure your test is as specific to the actual task as possible.

“BTE’s Primus increases revenue and pays for itself in short order." The PrimusRS allows the clinic to capitalize on higher-yielding CPT codes, and bill for more units. Aside from its earning potential, therapists and patients feel more engaged with the new equipment.

To better measure the impact of the new reimbursements, we took a deeper look at the average changes in CPT code 97530 (and 97112) in multiple jurisdictions. Medicare now pays an average of $10.30 per unit more for 97530 than 97110.

Employers’ overall claims costs continue to rise, and Workers' Comp therapy is in high demand. Payers who handle these claims are eager to get their clients back to work and function as efficiently as possible. This presents a tremendous opportunity for your clinic.

“We have to keep costs low, get results and keep the referral source happy, but we also have to keep the patient happy,” says Rich. “Using Primus for effort measurement allows us to do both.

“Unlike all the other testing methods I’ve seen and used in the past, BTE’s objective technology delivers consistent, accurate results.... No other pre-employment testing can offer that. Today’s companies need that, and they are willing to pay for it,” says Susy.